Finding Your Queer Family in Unexpected Places
Have you ever felt like the only rainbow fish in a very straight pond? That was me three years ago when I moved to Muskegon, Michigan – a place where I was sure my queer identity would fade into the background.
My Muskegon Story
Winter 2020, I stood on the shores of Lake Michigan, watching ice formations while questioning my decision to leave my vibrant LGBTQ+ community in Chicago. The downtown coffee shops seemed cozy but potentially unwelcoming. Would I find connection here? The first month was lonely – until I stumbled upon a tiny rainbow flag sticker in the window of a local bookstore.
When Being Visible Feels Scary
Let's be honest about the struggles:
- That hesitation before mentioning your partner's name in casual conversation
- The mental calculation of safety versus authenticity in new spaces
- Wondering if dating apps will actually have anyone within a 50-mile radius
- Finding queer-friendly healthcare providers who understand your specific needs
Creating Your Queer Oasis
What I've learned is that queer community exists everywhere – sometimes you just need to create it:
- Start small: local libraries often host inclusive events or can point you to resources
- Online-to-offline connections: regional LGBTQ+ Facebook groups can lead to real friendships
- Be the visibility you wish to see – your openness might help someone else find you
- Muskegon's arts community has surprising pockets of queer solidarity
Remember: your queerness doesn't diminish because of your geography. Your identity remains whole and valid even when it feels invisible.
I want you to know that your loneliness isn't permanent. The Muskegon queer community may be smaller, but we're here, creating spaces of belonging in coffee shops, book clubs, and lakeside gatherings.
Let's Connect
What's your experience being queer in a smaller community? Share your story below – it might be exactly what another person needs to read today.